Mauritius is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, with the privately owned Île aux Cerfs island very popular with tourists.
Black River Gorges National Park, Tamarind Falls and Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcano, are also highlights.
Getting to Mauritius
Around 100,000 British tourists visit Mauritius every year, but due to its locatio, airplane is the only viable method of transportation available from the United Kingdom.
Flying from London to Mauritius takes around 15 hours, on average, but flight times will be dependent on your airline and how long stops last.
If you are unsure as to how best to stick to your medication schedule then it is best to discuss a plan with your diabetes team
Time zone
The time difference in Mauritius is three hours ahead of British Summer Time and four hours of Greenwich Mean time, which may require alteration of your diabetes management.
You should discuss any changes to your medication schedule with your diabetes team prior to departure.
Temperature
The summer period of June to September is the coolest in Mauritius, with average temperature around 20°C.
Otherwise, Mauritius remains much warmer all-year round, with temperatures roughly increasing to 25°C, on average.
Hot weather can lead to enhanced insulin absorption so insulin takers should be attentive in checking blood sugar levels, especially during periods of activity.
Currency
The currency used in Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee. The rate of exchange is much better in Mauritius and recommended for travellers entering the country without currency. Some major credit and debit cards such as MasterCard, Visa and American Express are widely accepted.
Vaccinations
There are no mandatory vaccinations to enter Mauritius, however several are highly recommended. You should consult your doctor eight weeks prior to your departure in order to receive the vaccinations in time.
All travellers are recommended to get vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid, which can both be contracted through contaminated food or water.
Some travellers are also recommended to receive vaccinations for other diseases, including hepatitis B and rabies, which can be carried by bats in Mauritius.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Venezuela , although the government of Mauritius requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if you have travelled from a country with a risk of the disease.
Ensuring access to medication
UK citizens with diabetes will not be entitled to any free medication services while in Mauritius. Securing comprehensive medical insurance will be essential in order to obtain even basic treatment.
Diabetic medication is available in Mauritius, but payment will be required from all pharmacies. Blood and urine equipment will be available for most pharmacies.
The number to call in case of an emergency relating to your diabetes, such as a hypo, is 114.
Insulin
You should note which syringes are available in Mauritius, with U-100, U-80 and U-40 syringes the most commonly used.
The vast majority of insulin in the UK is U-100 insulin. If you need to take a different strength of insulin, say in an emergency, it’s important that you use the correct device and syringes for that insulin.
For example, you would use a U-40 syringe for U-40 insulin. You will need to work with a doctor getting the right dose if you’re using a different form of insulin.
Diabetes associations
It is important to note the diabetes associations in the country you are travelling to in case of an emergency.
There is one diabetic association in Mauritius that can be contacted prior to your arrival. Their contact details are:
- Mauritius Diabetes Association (a member of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) since 1982), Bell Village, Port Louis,
Tel: +230-2561856
Email: [email protected]
Questions
- What language is spoken in Mauritius? English and French
- Will I need an international driving license when driving in Mauritius? Yes
- If I want to hire a vehicle during my visit, will I face any form of discrimination? No
- What sugar free drinks are available in Mauritius? Various no added sugar drinks are available
